A simple guide to mindfulness

Mindfulness is a funny thing.

Not “ha-ha” funny but “hmmm, that’s strange” funny.

It’s funny because, on the one hand, it’s the simplest thing in the world.

On the other, it seems to be the hardest thing.

Let’s take a look at this and see what’s going on.

So simple

At heart, mindfulness is about being aware.

Knowing what’s happening while it’s happening.

Of course, you can be aware of something and still be in the grip of it.

So to be helpful, awareness needs to include some space so that you’re not caught up in what’s happening.

This feels good. It also helps you make new and helpful choices.

So hard

Mindfulness is hard for two reasons.

First of all, it’s often presented in ways that don’t make sense.

I mean they kind of make sense, you understand what the words mean. But when you really get down to it, what’s being talked about seems like a mystery.

Or it makes sense on one level but you just can’t seem to do it. It’s almost like you are hard-wired to not be mindful.

It’s easy to blame yourself at this point but really this is a failure of the way things are being taught.

There is no reason that you can’t find a way with mindfulness that feels like a good fit for you.

And when it comes down to it, mindfulness is about you.

Your mind. Your heart. How you tick.

The second reason mindfulness is hard is that it’s about you.

Your mind. Your heart. The way you tick.

As you well know, some of this is uncomfortable. No doubt you have thoughts that bother you and feelings that are hard to bear.

Mindfulness brings you in touch with what’s happening inside you and shows you how to unravel patterns of stress and feel more at ease in your own skin.

This is obviously a good thing but it requires a little courage to face what’s uncomfortable. It also needs patience. This is not something to be forced or rushed.

Take it easy

If this sounds like hard work, don’t worry. Learning mindfulness can be interesting, satisfying and enjoyable. You can start where you are. In fact, that’s the best place to start.

My approach to mindfulness combines clarity with creativity and connection. This allows you to make sense of things, make them your own and make sure they really work for you.

If you’d like to find out more about this approach send me an email, take a look at one-to-one coaching or try my free PlayMindful audio course…👇🏻